India vs Zimbabwe Playing 11: Predicted XIs for crucial Super 8 Clash in T20 World Cup 2026

India take on Zimbabwe in a must-win Super 8 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on February 26 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Both teams head into the contest under pressure, knowing that another loss could severely dent their semifinal aspirations.

India Look to Bounce Back After Heavy Defeat

The India national cricket team are aiming to recover from a crushing 76-run defeat to South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The setback has intensified scrutiny on team combinations and tactical decisions.

Zimbabwe, captained by Sikandar Raza, are also coming off a significant loss and will be desperate to stay in contention.

Possible Change in India’s Playing XI

One of the most likely adjustments in India’s lineup could be replacing Washington Sundar with Axar Patel. Sundar featured in two matches but struggled to leave an impact. Against South Africa, he bowled just two overs without claiming a wicket and scored 11 runs off 11 balls while batting at No. 5. His selection over Axar Patel attracted criticism following the defeat.

Predicted Playing XIs

India Predicted XI: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

Zimbabwe Predicted XI: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Dion Myers, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza (c), Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Graeme Cremer, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani

Full Squads

India Squad: Ishan Kishan (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson

Zimbabwe Squad: Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza (c), Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Wellington Masakadza